FINALLY planning that dream Italian trip!? Portofino has to be on that list! Portofino is a small village on the coast of the Tigullio Gulf, which flows into the Ligurian Sea filled with luxury shops, fine dining, and beaches. While pricey, nearby towns offer more budget-friendly options. Perfect for a day trip or short stay to enjoy the views, cuisine, and coastal adventures!
Drawing from my own incredible experience in Portofino, you will get the non-sugar-coated truth of Portofino and how to maximize your experience. You will get my top recommendations for stay, food, transportation and hidden gems.
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Getting to Portofino
Starting in Switzerland, my European journey spanned a month. Passing through the Alps, Bellagio was my initial stop for a two-day exploration, detailed in my Bellagio Blog coming soon. A brief stop in Milan for a few hours, preceded our arrival in Santa Margherita Ligure, where we concluded our drive and prepared for the Portofino experience.
Accommodation - Where to Stay
Choosing the perfect accommodation sets the tone for your Portofino experience. Whether you opt for a luxurious villa overlooking the waterfront or a cozy apartment within the heart of Santa Margherita, there's no shortage of options to suit your preferences and budget.
Affordable Options - Portofino Flat by PortofinoVip: Cozy and budget-friendly flat in Portofino.
Mid-range Options - Olives Bay Terrace in Portofino: Comfortable stay perfect for 2-3 guests with a terrace view.
Luxurious Option - Villa Franca Portofino by KlabHouse: Luxurious villa perfect for up to 6 people with a pool and overlooking the Italian coast.
For a more detailed blog on the best accommodations in Portofino, check out my full blog here: Best Places to Stay in Portofino - From Budget to Luxury.
Best Areas to Stay near Portofino: Santa Margherita
For budget-conscious travelers seeking proximity to Portofino, Santa Margherita is ideal. It's adjacent to Portofino, offering various charming accommodations in a relaxed coastal setting. Utilizing booking.com, I easily filtered options to match my preferences and exact location needs. Here are accommodation options across different budgets.
Eight Hotel Paraggi: Luxurious seaside retreat offering upscale amenities.
Livin' Portofino LUX - Perfect apartment for a group of up to 6 people: Spacious and well-appointed apartment ideal for groups.
Villa Draga by PortofinoVacanze: Charming villa with large circle pool nestled in a serene secluded setting.
Best Ways to Get Around Portofino
Bus: Catch a bus from Piazza Martiri dell'Olivetta in Portofino to nearby towns like Santa Margherita Ligure, Rapallo, and Genoa. Tickets available at the bus stop or from the driver.
Bike/Scooter Rentals: Find rental shops along the waterfront promenade for bikes and scooters, including helmets and maps for self-guided exploration.
Passenger Ferry: Consorzio Marittimo Turistico Golfo Paradiso offers a scenic ferry between Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino. Departing from Santa Margherita Ligure's main harbor area, the ferry journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes Tickets are at the harbor ticket office, near the departure point, and passengers are advised to check the schedule in advance for optimal planning.
Car Rental: Rent a car from major companies like Hertz, Europcar, and Avis in Santa Margherita Ligure or Rapallo. Book online or at their offices.
Private Water Taxis: Arrange private water taxis at Portofino Marina or through upscale hotels like Belmond Hotel Splendido or Eight Hotel Portofino for stylish coastal travel.
Best Restaurants in Portofino
Portofino is a paradise for foodies (like me). From elegant seafood restaurants in Portofino to charming cafes in Santa Margherita, each dish celebrates the rich flavors of Italian cuisine. Indulge in fresh seafood, authentic pizzas, and regional specialties that will make you come back for more.
Best Waterfront Restaurants in/near Portofino
La Stella Ristorante: Exquisite seafood dishes in an elegant harbor-view setting.
La Terraza: Romantic terrace dining overlooking the sea with classic Italian and seafood specialties.
La Taverna del Marinaio: Waterfront restaurant with homemade pasta and risottos.
Langosteria: Beautiful waterfront spot famous for oysters, seafood pasta, and a robust wine list.
Ristorante de Nicola Pizzeria: Cozy spot for authentic Italian pizzas with various toppings.
In Santa Margherita:
There is SO many more food options in Santa Margherita, especially near the Piazza Mazzini.
(My favorite) Ducoq Santa Margherita: The cutest intimate restaurant perfect for date night surrounded by lemon trees, known for the best oysters in town.
Da Gennaro: Cozy trattoria offering traditional Ligurian dishes and fresh seafood.
Osteria il Gambero Rosso: Charming osteria serving regional specialties like lasagna and seafood risotto.
Pizzeria II Delfino: A great spot for authentic pizzas near Piazza Mazzini.
In Rapallo:
Sole 1936: Seaside eatery with views of the Rapallo Castle. You will enjoy Mediterranean flavors, signature seafood dishes, and exquisite pasta creations. It is best to at night to see the sparkle of the Italian coast.
Top Things to Do in Portofino
1. Explore the Outdoors:
Hiking: Embark on scenic hikes along the rugged coastline or through Portofino Regional Park, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and lush landscapes.
Boat Excursions Tours: Take a boat tour to explore nearby hidden gems like San Fruttuoso, a tiny village with a stunning abbey. You can also visit Punta Chiappa, known for its picturesque coastline and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and swimming adventures.
2. Indulge in Beach Club Luxury:
Beach Clubs: Experience ultimate relaxation and luxury at Portofino's exclusive beach clubs, such as Baia di Paraggi or Paraggi Beach Club, for a premium beach experience. For a chic, high-end beach visit, head to Bagni Fiore, where you can snorkel in the peaceful bay teeming with natural marine life.
3. Discover Nearby Towns
Rapallo: Discover the vibrant town known for its lively promenade, historic castle, and picturesque harbor. Explore the Basilica of San Gervasio, stroll along Lungomare Vittorio Veneto, and enjoy gelato at local gelaterias.
Camogli: Immerse yourself in the colorful coastal charm of Camogli, famous for its pastel-colored houses, pebble beach, and traditional fishing boats, just like Portofino. You can also hike from Camogli to San Fruttuoso Abbey. You can plan on a 4-mile hike for this trip!
San Fruttuoso: Experience one of the most popular Portofino hikes to San Fruttuoso Abbey, located in the Portofino Natural Park. You can also reach the abbey by boat if hiking isn't your preference. Don't miss dining at La Cantina, a charming beachfront restaurant serving fresh seafood and local specialties.
Free Beach Escapes: If you're looking for budget-friendly beach options without having to pay $200 for a beach chair, Santa Margherita Beach provides free access with floaties available for a relaxing swim. Similarly, Spiaggia Libera Public Beach in Portofino, and Gio e Rino Beach offer complimentary access for a peaceful day by the water.
Hidden Gems: Portofino's Secrets
Imperiale Palace Hotel: While I wasn't a guest, I explored the stunning garden and made my way to the beach/pool, enjoying the luxurious ambiance.
Portofino Lighthouse: A scenic spot atop the Portofino promontory, reachable only via a picturesque hike from the town of Portofino.
Cervara Abbey: An ancient abbey with medieval architecture, the most stunning gardens, and panoramic views of the Ligurian coastline. Accessible by boat from Portofino or Santa Margherita Ligure, with regular ferry services during the tourist season.
Church of San Giorgio: A historic church in Portofino's main square, easily reached on foot from the town center.
Baia Cannone: is a true hidden gem, nestled near the Picollo hotel along the Ligurian coastline. While signs may direct you to the free beach, take the stairs or hike down to discover the secluded cove of Baia Cannone, offering a serene escape for swimming and snorkeling away from the crowds.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Portofino serves as a gateway to exploring Italy's nearby attractions. Whether you're enjoying accommodations, trying local cuisine, or discovering hidden gems, each moment in Portofino offers a journey of discovery. I hope this guide was helpful, and remember, there's nothing like experiencing a place for yourself and creating your own magical moments. So go out there, explore, and create unforgettable memories.
Until next time, adios! <3
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